Indonesia and China are intensifying their economic collaboration, with bilateral trade experiencing a significant increase from approximately $8 billion to $154 billion. During a forum in Jakarta, former Indonesian Ambassador to China, Sudrajat, highlighted this rapid growth, noting that trade had already reached $20 billion by 2010 before climbing to its current level. China now stands as Indonesia’s largest trading partner, reflecting a broader trend of growing trade relations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Sudrajat emphasized that the strengthening of economic ties should be matched by enhanced people-to-people relations and practical cooperation that benefits local communities. He pointed to disaster management as a promising area for collaboration, utilizing China’s expertise in disaster prevention and emergency response to improve Indonesia’s preparedness for natural calamities such as floods, forest fires, and earthquakes.
The cooperation between Indonesia and China is extending beyond traditional trade and investment into areas like the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and green development. Guan Kejiang, a Chinese media executive, discussed aligning China’s development priorities with Indonesia’s “Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision,” which seeks to transform Indonesia into a developed economy by its centenary of independence. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining regional stability and fostering international cooperation amid global geopolitical tensions and protectionism.
Chinese diplomat Zhou Kan described both nations as influential developing economies and significant members of the Global South, actively participating in international forums such as BRICS, the G20, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. Zhou noted the development of bilateral relations through stronger political trust, deeper economic integration, and expanding cultural exchanges.
Indonesian investment adviser Noor Sona Maesana Mushonnif highlighted the role of the comprehensive strategic partnership in advancing Indonesia’s mining, electric vehicle, and manufacturing industries. He called for further cooperation in renewable energy, agriculture, maritime industries, and high-value-added manufacturing, underscoring a mutual interest in broadening the partnership beyond traditional trade.